Light reflector assembly

ABSTRACT

A reflector includes multiple segments that can be interconnected by a flexible extrusion and connected to a top collar to form a reflective shell around a light source. The segments are corrugated for increased strength, the corrugations forming elongate facets characterized by reflective surfaces that reflect light laterally beside the light source as well as downwardly from the light source to minimize light reflected back toward the light source and maximize the service life of the light source. The corrugations add strength and stability to the segments permitting the sheet thickness, overall reflector weight, and cost to be minimized. The segments are preferably formed from a stamped aluminum sheet of about 0.020 inch thickness, and can be pre-or-post anodized to form the reflective surfaces, the pre-anodized surfaces being protected by a polycoat during stamping. Differently shaped segments can be arranged as desired to achieve a desired pattern of reflected light, and differently shaped top collars can be used to adapt the reflector for use on different light sources. The reflector can be shipped in a knocked-down state to minimize space required for shipping or storage, and assembled or repaired on site.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of prior pending applicationSer. No. 07/802,007 filed Nov. 27, 1991 now abandoned.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to reflectors for luminaires and, in particular,to a reflector assembled from segments.

Reflectors are commonly used to reflect light from a light source. Thereflectors focus the reflected light in desired patterns and withdesired levels of intensity so that energy costs are minimized whilemaximum lighting is achieved. Reflectors also serve to protect the lightsource, with some reflectors providing a protective enclosure to protectthe light source from weather, dust, moisture, and the like. Still otherreflectors provide a lens or bottom cover that serves to protect thelight source from flying objects, and also protect persons therebelow inthe event that the light source should break apart.

However, due to their hollow, bulky shape, reflectors typically requirespecialized equipment for their manufacture, and take up considerableamounts of room after manufacture, making them expensive to manufacture,store or ship. Particularly in industrial-type reflectors where thelight sources and associated reflectors are often large, shipping andstorage can be a major cost. Further, large reflectors tend to beundesirably heavy as is necessary in order for the components tomaintain their shape and provide the desired level of durability inservice. However, this increases material costs, shipping costs andmakes installation more difficult. Still further, reflectors must beadaptable for use on existing lighting systems to be competitive and toavoid excessive inventory problems.

Thus, a need was apparent for a reflector which provides maximumlighting in desired areas while facilitating manufacture, storage,shipping and installation, and providing commercial levels of durabilityand protection for the light source.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention provides a reflector including aplurality of panel-like segments that can be arranged and interconnectedto form a hollow shell with an outlet opening, a collar means attachedto the segments for positioning and retaining the reflector on a lightsource, and an interconnecting means for interconnecting the segments.In one form, the invention includes a removable connector that capturesflanges on the side edges of the segments so as to orient the segmentsrelative to each other, whereby the reflector can be shipped and storedunassembled, and assembled or repaired on site or as desired. In anotherform, the invention includes a removable top collar that attaches toflanges on the segments, the top collar being attachable on-site. In yetanother form, the invention includes segments having an integral bottomflange adapted to retain a cover over the outlet opening.

Preferably, the segments are stamped from a sheet of anodized aluminumsheet of about 0.020 thickness or less, and include corrugations whichincrease the structural strength of the segments, the corrugationsforming facets on the inner reflective surface of the segments that areelongate and distribute the light in selected patterns. Advantageously,the top collars and segments come in different configurations, thusallowing them to be selected on site to give a particular pattern ofreflected light or to attach to a particular existing light sourcestructure.

As will be understood from the invention, numerous advantages over theprior known reflectors are provided by this invention. These includeincreased manufacturability of reflectors due to the relatively flatpanel-like shape of the segments. Further, flanges for attachment can beintegrally formed on the segments during manufacture. Still further, avariety of different materials can be used to make the segments.Additionally, the inner surface of the segments can be treated to makethem reflective either before or after manufacture of the segment. Forexample, where aluminum is used, the segments can be pre-or-postanodized, with the pre-anodized surfaces being protected by a polycoator other protective coating during processing. Also, the use ofspecialized processes for manufacture, such as for making the innersurface reflective after forming the reflector, are minimized.

Concerning assembly, the segments need not be immediately assembled, andcan be stored in compact arrangements to conserve space during storageand shipping. Further, later assembly of the reflector parts issimplified. Additionally, reflector parts can be selected as needed fororiginal installation or repair or to give desired patterns of reflectedlight. Also, the reflector is compatible for use with existing lightsources and associated hardware. Overall, the reflector assembly isadaptable to fit various needs while providing a relatively noncomplexyet reliable mechanical structure.

These and other objects, advantages, purposes and features of theinvention will become more apparent from a study of the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a reflector embodying the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a partial assembly of the reflector inFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side, sectional view of the reflector in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged, side view of the upper portion of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a profile view of a top collar half piece;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the top collar half piece of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a top view of a segment;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the segment of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view as taken through plane IX--IX in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view as taken through plane X--X in FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along plane XI--XI in FIG. 7;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged sectional view taken along plane XII--XII in FIG.3;

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a segment showing the distribution of lightrays;

FIG. 14 is a side view of a segment showing the distribution of lightrays;

FIG. 15 illustrates one form of the reflector providing a first patternof reflected light;

FIG. 16 illustrates another form of the reflector providing a secondparticular pattern of reflected light;

FIG. 17 illustrates yet another form of the reflector providing a thirdpattern of reflected light;

FIG. 18 is a top view of a second embodiment of a top collar half memberembodying the present invention; and

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a reflector including a secondembodiment of a segment embodying the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A reflector embodying the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 1and 2 and is generally referred to by numeral 20. Reflector 20 isadapted to be positioned around a light source 32 or 33 (FIG. 3) to forma light weight luminaire. Reflector 20 includes multiple panel-likesegments 22 that are interconnected at their adjacent side edges 38 by aremovable connector such as flexible extrusion 24 and connected at theirtop edges 40 to a top collar 26. Segments 22 include a reflective innersurface 34 so that when they are joined, segments 22 form ageometrically shaped hollow and reflective shell around light source 32,with top collar 26 attaching to and holding light source 32 on a centraloptical axis 36 (FIG. 3) defined by the geometric shell. The bottomedges 42 of segments 22 form an outlet opening or mouth 44 for emittingthe direct and reflected light from light source 32.

Segments 22 are characterized by folds or corrugations 28 (FIG. 7) thatextend vertically along segments 22. Corrugations 28 add strength andstructural integrity to segments 22 allowing segments 22 to be made ofthinner and lighter weight materials. Corrugations 28 also form elongatefacets 30 on reflective inner surface 34, facets 30 being characterizedby elongate, wedge-shaped reflective surfaces oriented to reflect lightat complex angles beside and below light source 32, but not back at thelight source, so as to minimize the light source heat and maximize theservice life of the light source.

A half assembled reflector 20 is illustrated in FIG. 2 with foursegments shown as preassembled by extrusions 24 to a top collar halfpiece 46. For clarity, corrugations 28 are not shown on segments 22 inFIG. 2. As shown, a second top collar half piece 46 is ready to be movedforward and attached to the first top collar half piece 46 to form acomplete top collar 26 in the shape of a ring. Also, a segment 22 isshown ready to be moved forward to a position wherein it can be attachedto the second top collar half piece 46 and interconnected to adjacentsegments by an extrusion 24. Notably, each segment 22 includesintegrally formed opposing side edges 38, a top edge 40 and a bottomedge 42 with associated flanges 48, 50 and 52 thereon, respectively.Side edge flanges 48 are adapted for interconnection to adjacent sideedge flanges 48 on adjacent segments 22 by extrusion 24, and top edgeflange 50 is adapted for attaching to top collar 26. Bottom edge flange52 could also be adapted to interconnect to each other or connect to acollar, but in the embodiment shown, defines an inwardly facing "C"shape adapted to retainably engage a bottom cover 54 (FIG. 3). Bottomcover 54 is useful such as for protecting light source 32 from flyingobjects or for enclosing same from weather. It is contemplated that thebottom cover could be of a number of different types such as a wire meshcover 54', a grate 54", a lens, or other structures particularly adaptedfor a given use.

As shown in FIGS. 4-6 and 18, each top collar half piece 46 includes anarcuate semicircular portion 56 and an attachment ear 58. Arcuateportion 56 defines an outwardly angled wall having an angled innersurface 60 with spaced holes 62 therein. Holes 62 permit attachment oftop edge flanges or tabs 50 on segments 22 to top collar half piece 46by screw 64. The outermost end of arcuate wall portion 56 includes anoffset 70 (FIG. 6 and 18) allowing a pair of half pieces 46 to beattached together to form a single top collar 26 with a substantiallycontinuous inner surface 60. Offset 70 includes a hole 72 that alignswith one of holes 62 in the mating of top collar half pieces 46, therebypermitting conventional interconnection by use of a screw 64 without useof extra unnecessary parts. By being oriented at an angle with respectto central axis 36, arcuate portion 56 increases its resistance to beingforced out of round while maintaining the concept of minimizing weight.The angle at which portion 56 is formed also helps prevent withdrawal oftabs 50 should screw 64 loosen or be lost.

Arcuate portion 56 (FIG. 4) also provides a continuous upper surface 66adapted to sealingly engage a looping S-shaped gasket 68. Attachment ear58 extends laterally outwardly from the bottom of arcuate portion 56 andincludes a C-shaped lip 73 on its outmost end. With this arrangement,top collar 26 is adapted to sealingly engage a light source fixture suchas the fixture 74 shown. All of the details of fixture 74 need not bedescribed in detail other than to note that fixture 74 includes atranslucent downwardly extending structure 76 that sealingly engages theouter loop in S-shaped gasket 68 and further includes a releasableover-center latch 78 that grips lip 73 on attachment ear 58 to draw topcollar 26 (and reflector 20) and gasket 68 upwardly into sealingengagement against light source fixture 74. When access to light source32 is desired, latch 78 unlatches and drops top collar 26 (and reflector20) downwardly a few inches so that light source 32 can be laterallyaccessed from a side, such as for replacement, adjustment or repair.Optionally, latch 78 includes a safety pin 80 so that it cannot beaccidentally released.

Bottom lip or flange 52 (FIG. 3) is C-shaped and adapted to received aC-shaped gasket or pad 82. Gasket 82 is cut to length from a C-shapedextrusion that is adapted to snap into flange 52. Bottom cover 54includes a marginal edge 84 that engages gasket 82 and, in turn, flange52. Notably, flanges 52 form a closed section that traps and retainsbottom cover 54 when segments 22 are assembled into the shape ofreflector 20. Also, gasket 82 assists in holding segments 22 in thegeometric shape of reflector 20 both by grippingly attaching each ofsegments 22 to bottom cover 54 but also by the internal strength ofgasket 82 as it passes from segment to segment around outlet opening 44.

Segments 22 (FIGS. 7-10) are generally wedge-shaped, panel-like membersmade from any of a number of different processes and materials, but inthe preferred embodiment, are contemplated to be stamped from a sheet ofpre-anodized aluminum of about 0.020 thickness. Alternately, segments 22can be formed from molded plastic which is sputter coated, polished orplated to form a reflective surface, various other types of metal whichmay have electrodeposited reflective coatings thereon, or perforatedmaterials which, as explained below allow light distribution to thesides of the reflector.

A sheet of raw aluminum or steel material with a particular reflectivesurface 34 is selected as desired with a particular diffusion property,the reflective surface 34 including a polycoat 85 (FIG. 9) or otherprotective coating that adheringly covers and protects the reflectivesurface 34 from adverse localized damage during the stamping process butwhich can be later removed or peeled off to expose the reflectivesurface when the segments are ready for assembly and use. Alternatively,depending upon the characteristics of the sheet to be formed and thesize and shape of the segment 22 to be formed, reflective surface 34need not be covered by polycoat 85. Presently it is contemplated thatthe preferred embodiment will likely be made of a sheet of pre-anodizedaluminum having optical properties of a minimum total reflectance ofabout 75% to 86%, while also having mechanical properties of an ultimatestrength of about 25 to 27 KSI, a yield strength of about 22 to 24 KSI,and an elongation percent of about 5-8%. However, while use of such asheet is thought to be preferable, it is contemplated that the inventionis not limited to any particular sheet or range of properties.

As seen in FIGS. 7-11 and the sections taken through them, elongatefacets 30 each define a surface that is substantially linear in atransverse or lateral or radial direction about central axis 36 (FIGS.9-10), but which is curvilinear or arcuate in a longitudinal or axialdirection (FIG. 11). Concerning the transverse direction (FIG. 9-10),facets 30 are oriented so that light emitted from light source 32reflects to one side of central axis 36 and light source 32, withadjacent facets reflecting light on opposite sides of central axis 36and light source 32. Concerning the axial direction, facets 30 can beany of a number of different shapes as desired to yield the desiredpattern of reflected light therebelow.

In the preferred embodiment, facets 30 substantially form a particularshape 86 (FIG. 11) to create a desired distribution of light. It iscontemplated that light source 32 will be located within reflector 20 ata location along central optical axis 36 of reflector 20, axis 36passing through the center of reflector 20 and perpendicularly to theplane occupied by forward opening 44, so that the particular desireddistribution of light is obtained. Also, it is contemplated that lightsource 32 will be a high intensity discharge (HID) lamp such as mercury,high pressure sodium, or metal halide since these light sources arehighly efficient and offer long service life, although reflector 20 issuitable for use with other types of light sources.

Also shown in FIG. 11 are two additional axial shapes, a second shape 88being more sharply curved than shape 86 and useful for reflecting light"L" in a sharply lateral direction, and a third shape 90 that is lesssharply curved than shape 86 and useful for reflecting light "L" in adifferent pattern. Though only three variations in axial shape areshown, a multitude of such shapes are possible. Further, by combiningdifferent segments, such as segment 22' with an axial shape 86 near itsside edges 38 and with an axially more sharply curved shape 88 near itscenter, segment 22' reflects at least part of the light laterally, suchas against a wall or stack of racks (FIG. 17). Alternatively, by forminga single segment 22" with an axially less sharply curved shape 90,segment 22" reflects a particular desired pattern of light therebelow,such as could be used to form a square light pattern (FIG. 16).

Extrusion 24 (FIG. 12) is adapted to retainably engage side edge flanges48 of adjacently positioned segments 22. Extrusion 24 is flexible,elongate and includes inner and outer pairs of opposing lips orresilient flanges 92 and 94, respectively. Resilient flanges 92 and 94are interconnected by a stem 96. Side edge flanges 48 of segments 22abut the side surfaces of stem 96 and are captured within the space 98defined by stem 96 and resilient flanges 92, 94. The outer resilientflanges 94 include a tip 100 that extends substantially into the cornerformed at the base 102 of side edge flange 48, thereby trapping andsecurely retainably engaging same in place against stem 96 and againstthe opposing tip 104 of inner resilient flange 92.

It is contemplated that extrusion 24 will extend the length of segments22 and sealingly retain same to each other, though it need not extendthe full length thereof or sealingly engage segments 22. Optimally,extrusion 24 will be made of a UV stable material such as athermoformable extrudable plastic or polymeric material such aspolyvinyl chloride (PVC). In the preferred embodiment, extrusion 24 iscontemplated to be translucent so as to emit an amount of lighttherethrough to provide an appearance signature. Extrusion 24 will beresiliently flexible enough to removably slip or slide longitudinallyonto side edge flange 48. Alternatively, extrusion 24 could clamp orsnap onto side edge flange 48 from a side thereof. For example, it iscontemplated that a sheet metal spring-like clip in the shape of a "W"or "C" could be utilized to clamp flanges 48 together.

FIG. 13 illustrates a light ray trace of the preferred embodiment ofreflector 20 from a top view. Two major groups of light rays 110, 112are shown, with several other groups shown only in an abbreviated form.Group 110 is shown emitting from light source 32 and is shown, forillustration purposes, as striking a particular elongate facet 30A onsegment 22A in five locations labelled as locations 113A-118A. As shown,the light is reflected in parallel directions through locations119A-124A, none of which are on central axis 36 or pass through lightsource 32, and all of which are on the same side of light source 32.Optionally, a second corresponding facet on an adjacent segment 22Breferred to here for clarity as facet 30B reflects light similar tofacet 30A, but on an opposite side of light source 32, points 119B-124Bcorresponding to points 113B-118B. Notably, facet 30A is the secondfacet in from side edge 38 on first segment 22A, while facet 30B is thefirst facet in from side edge 38 of the far but adjacent segment 22B.Thus, considering reflector 20 as a whole, an equal amount of light isdistributed around light source 32, but substantially none is reflecteddirectly back through light source 32.

FIG. 14 illustrates a light ray trace of the preferred embodiment ofreflector 20 from a side view. Light is emitted from light source 32 andcontacts the reflective inner surface of segments 22, such as on theillustrated facet 30. Depending upon the curvature of facet 30, light isreflected generally downwardly toward outlet opening 44 in a complexpattern. Notably, the diffusion and other reflective properties offacets 30 affect this distribution, however the diagram stillillustrates the distribution. The particular view shown shows lightreflecting at points 125-131 toward locations 132-138. The cumulation ofthe reflected light gives a particular pattern on the floor therebelow.

Reflector 20 is adapted to be shipped in a knocked down state andassembled on site. As a result, reflector 20 is particularly adapted tobe custom built for particular situations. Three such situations areshown in FIGS. 15-17, wherein a circular floor pattern of reflectedlight is desired (FIG. 15), a square or rectangular pattern is desired(FIG. 16), or an asymmetric pattern is desired (FIG. 17). In FIG. 15, asingle type segment "A" such as a segment 22 is utilized, eight ofsegments "A" making a reflector 20. In FIG. 16, two different types ofsegments "A" and "B" are used in an alternative arrangement to constructreflector 20', such as could be done by alternatingly connectingsegments 22 having a particular shape 86 with segments 22' (FIG. 11)having a different shape 88. In FIG. 17, three different types ofsegments "A", "B" and "C" are used to construct a reflector 20"including, in sequence, four of segment "A", one of segment "B", two ofa segment "C" and one more of segment "B". In this last example, segment"C" could be segment 22" (FIG. 11). The reflector formed is generallyreferred to as 20", and would be useful for lighting both a floor area154 and a wall of racks or shelves 156.

Reflector 20 can be assembled in a variety of different ways, only oneof which is hereinafter described. The desired number of segments 22 (or22' or 22") are selected along with two top collar half pieces 46,extrusions 24, and bottom cover or grate 54 (such as in FIG. 2) to formthe desired reflector 20 which will yield the desired pattern ofreflected light and also which will attach to the existing light sourcefixture 74 (if present). Segments 22 are interconnected by slideablyinstalling extrusion 24 onto adjacent side edge flanges 48 to form ahollow shell with reflective inner surface 34. If desired, a bottomcover or grate 54 is inserted into bottom gasket 82 and, in turn, intobottom flanges 52 as segments 22 are interconnected. Top collar halfpieces 46 are attached together to form a ring-like top collar 26 aroundsegment top flanges 50 and attached to same by screws 64. Reflector 20is then coupled to a light source such as by connecting ears 58 to anover-center latch 78 on an existing light source fixture 74. If desired,an upper gasket 68 can be utilized on top collar 26 to sealingly engagefixture 74, thus providing with bottom cover 54 a substantially weatherresistant and air tight enclosure around light source 32.

In use, light source 32 emits light which emanates outwardly and isreflected from elongate facets 30 on reflective inner surface 34 ofreflector 20. The facets 30 reflect light downwardly in the desiredpattern, but also reflect the light beside and away from light source 32to minimize heat buildup in light source 32 and maximize its servicelife.

A plurality of top collars can be made to adapt to different existinglight source fixtures. Top collar half piece 46' (FIG. 18) illustratesone such variation which is similar to top collar half piece 46 butincludes an attachment flange or ear 58' that extends laterally and isplanar in shape. Ear 58' includes multiple slots 140 that permit itsattachment to light source fixtures (not shown) having downwardlyoriented screws or holes for screws.

It is also contemplated that a reflector could be further modified todistribute light around and outwardly to the sides of the light sourcefixture to which it is attached, such as by including perforations 142in segments 22" (FIG. 19).

It is also contemplated that the segments 22 of a reflector could beinterconnected or connected to top collar 26 with a fastenerlessconnection means to further reduce weight and reduce parts required forassembly. One such interconnection is a clinched joint such as isillustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 4,910,853 issued to Sawdon on Mar. 27, 1990entitled APPARATUS FOR JOINING SHEET MATERIAL, the entire contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

Thus, a reflector is provided that is made of interconnectable segments.The segments provide increased manufacturability, assemblability andalso provide for more efficient storage and shipping. Further, thesegments can be shipped in a knocked-down state and assembled on site,the segments and top collar being selected to form a reflector thatyields a desired light pattern and also is attachable to existing lightfixtures.

While several forms of the invention have been shown and described,other forms will now be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore,it will be understood that the embodiment shown in the drawings anddescribed above are merely for illustrative purposes, and are notintended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by theclaims which follow and as interpreted by the Doctrine of Equivalents.

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property orprivilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. A reflector for aluminaire, comprising:a plurality of segments each having side edgeswith flanges thereon, a top edge with a flange thereon, a bottom edge,and a reflective inner surface, said plurality of segments beingarranged to form a geometrically shaped hollow shell with said bottomedges arranged to form an outlet opening at one end for emitting lighttherethrough, said geometrically-shaped hollow shell defining a centralaxis; collar means for positioning and retaining said reflector to alight source on said central axis relative to said reflective innersurfaces, said collar means attaching to said flanges of said top edges;and interconnecting means for interconnecting said flanges of said sideedges, said interconnecting means including a plurality of extrusionseach removably engaging the opposing flanges on adjacent side edges ofsaid segments to retain said segments against said connector so as toorient said reflective inner surfaces of said segments relative to eachother, whereby said plurality of segments can be shipped and stored inan unassembled state and assembled and repaired on site.
 2. Thereflector as set forth in claim 1 wherein said interconnecting meansslideably installs onto said opposite flanges from an end of saidopposite flanges.
 3. The reflector as set forth in claim 1 wherein saidextrusion includes inner and outer pairs of opposing resilient flangeswhich capture and laterally position said opposite side edge flanges. 4.The reflector as set forth in claim 1 wherein said plurality of segmentsinclude corrugations that strengthen said plurality of segments, saidcorrugations defining multiple elongate facets on said inner reflectivesurfaces, said elongate facets being characterized by reflectivesurfaces that reflect light emitted from the light source at complexangles to the light source so that light is reflective away from thelight source and not reflective back into the light source, and adjacentones of said elongate facets reflecting light on opposite sides of saidcentral axis.
 5. The reflector as set forth in claim 4 wherein saidplurality of segments are made from material having a thickness nogreater than 0.20 inches.
 6. The reflector as set forth in claim 5wherein said material is sheet aluminum.
 7. The reflector as set forthin claim 4 wherein said material is metal and said plurality of segmentsare formed by stamping.
 8. The reflector as set forth in claim 7including a polycoat on said reflective surfaces that protects saidreflective surfaces during stamping.
 9. The reflector as set forth inclaim 1 wherein said plurality of segments are of at least eight innumber to facilitate manufacture, but are stackable for compact shippingand storage.
 10. The reflector as set forth in claim 1 including aprotective cover for said outlet opening, and wherein each of saidbottom edges of said plurality of segments includes an inwardly facingintegral bottom flange adapted to retainably engage said protectivecover.
 11. The reflector as set forth in claim 10 including a gasket,and wherein said protective cover includes a marginal edge thatcooperates with said gasket to sealingly engage said inwardly facingintegral bottom flanges.
 12. A reflector for a luminaire, comprising:aplurality of segments each having side edges with flanges thereon, a topedge with a flange thereon, a bottom edge, and a reflective innersurface, said plurality of segments being arranged to form ageometrically-shaped hollow shell with said bottom edges arranged toform an outlet opening at one end for emitting light therethrough, saidgeometrically-shaped hollow shell defining a central axis; collar meansfor positioning and retaining said reflector to a light source on saidcentral axis relative to said reflective inner surface, said collarmeans including a top collar with means for attaching to said top edgeflanges; and interconnecting means for interconnecting said flanges ofsaid side edges, said interconnecting means including a plurality ofextrusions each removably engaging the opposite flanges on adjacent sideedges of said segments so as to orient said reflective inner surfaces ofsaid segments relative to each other, whereby said plurality of segmentscan be shipped and stored in an unassembled state and assembled andrepaired on site.
 13. The reflector as set forth in claim 12 including aplurality of different top collars adapting said reflector to attach todifferent existing light sources.
 14. The reflector as set forth inclaim 12 wherein said top collar includes two semicircular members thatjoin to form a ring.
 15. A reflector for a luminaire, comprising:aplurality of segments each having side edges with flanges thereon, a topedge with a flange thereon, a bottom edge, and a reflective innersurface, said plurality of segments being arranged to form ageometrically shaped hollow shell with said bottom edges arranged toform an outlet opening at one end for emitting light therethrough, saidgeometrically-shaped hollow shell defining a central axis; collar meansfor positioning and retaining said reflector to a light source on saidcentral axis relative to said reflective inner surfaces, said collarmeans including a top collar with means for attaching to said flanges ofsaid top edges; interconnecting means for interconnecting said flangesof said side edges, said interconnecting means including a plurality ofextrusions each removably engages the opposite flanges on adjacent sideedges of said segments so as to orient said reflective inner surfaces ofsaid segments relative to each other, whereby said plurality of segmentscan be shipped and stored in an unassembled state and assembled andrepaired on site; a protective cover for said outlet opening, andwherein each of said bottom edges of said plurality of segments includesan inwardly facing integral bottom flange adapted to retainably engagesaid protective cover; a gasket, and wherein said protective coverincludes a marginal edge that cooperates with said gasket to sealinglyengage said inwardly facing integral bottom flanges; and said collarmeans sealingly engaging said top edges flanges and said extrusionssealingly engaging said opposite side edge flanges, said collar means,said extrusions and said bottom flanges forming a substantially airtight and environmentally resistant enclosure for said light source. 16.A reflector for a luminaire, comprising:a plurality of segments eachhaving side edges with flanges thereon, at op edge with a flangethereon, a bottom edge, and a reflective inner surface, said pluralityof segments being arranged to form a geometrically shaped hollow shellwith said bottom edges arranged to form an outlet opening at one end foremitting light therethrough, said geometrically-shaped hollow shelldefining a central axis; collar means for positioning and retaining saidreflector to a light source on said central axis relative to saidreflective inner surfaces, said collar means including a top collar withmeans for attaching to said flanges of said top edges; interconnectingmeans for interconnecting said flanges of said side edges, saidinterconnecting means including a plurality of extrusions each removablyengages the opposite flanges on adjacent side edges of said segments soas to orient said reflective inner surfaces of said segments relative toeach other, whereby said plurality of segments can be shipped and storedin an unassembled state and assembled and repaired on site; saidremovable extrusion being translucent so as to transmit an amount oflight therethrough to provide an appearance signature.
 17. A reflectorfor a luminaire, comprising:a plurality of segments each having sideedges with flanges thereon, a top edge with a flange thereon, a bottomedge, and a reflective inner surface, said plurality of segments beingarranged to form a geometrically shaped hollow shell with said bottomedges arranged to form an outlet opening at one end for emitting lighttherethrough, said geometrically-shaped hollow shell defining a centralaxis; collar means for positioning and retaining said reflector to alight source on said central axis relative to said reflective innersurfaces, said collar means including a top collar with means forattaching to said flanges of said top edges; interconnecting means forinterconnecting said flanges of said side edges, said interconnectingmeans including a plurality of extrusions each removably engages theopposite side edges of said segments so as to orient said reflectiveinner surfaces of said segments relative to each other, whereby saidplurality of segments can be shipped and stored in an unassembled stateand assembled and repaired on site; and said plurality of segmentsincluding a plurality of differently shaped segments, wherein various ofsaid plurality of differently shaped segments can be selected andarranged so as to form a unique reflector that creates a particulardesired pattern of reflected light therebelow.
 18. The reflector as setforth in claim 17 wherein said plurality differently shaped segmentsinclude first segments adapted to reflect light in an arcuate patternsuch as to illuminate a circular floor area, second segments adapted toreflect light in a pattern with a corner such as to illuminate arectangular floor area, and third segments adapted to reflect light atan obtuse lateral angle such as to illuminate a wall of racks.
 19. Areflector for a luminaire, comprising:a plurality of segments eachhaving side edges, a top edge with a flange thereon, a bottom edge, anda reflective inner surface, said plurality of segments being arranged toform a geometrically shaped hollow shell with said bottom edges arrangedto form an outlet opening at one end for emitting light therethrough,said geometrically-shaped hollow shell defining a central axis; aremovable top collar attached to said flanges on said top edges andincluding means for positioning and retaining said reflector to a lightsource on said central axis relative to said reflective inner surfaces,whereby said removable top collar can be attached on site; andinterconnecting means including a plurality of extrusions forinterconnecting said plurality of segments so as to orient saidreflective inner surfaces relative to the light source and each other,said plurality of extrusions each removably engaging said flanges onadjacent side edges of said segments to retain said segments againstsaid extrusion.
 20. The reflector as set forth in claim 19 wherein saidtop collar includes two semicircular members that join to form a ring.21. The reflector as set forth in claim 19 wherein said top collar isadapted to sealingly engage said plurality of segments and the lightsource to provide a weather resistant covering over the light source.22. The reflector as set forth in claim 21 including a protective coverfor said outlet opening, and wherein each of said bottom edges of saidplurality of segments includes, an inwardly facing bottom flange adaptedto retainably engage said protective cover, said inwardly facing bottomflange sealingly engaging said protective cover, whereby said reflectorencloses the light source in a weather resistant enclosure.
 23. Thereflector as set forth in claim 19 wherein said plurality of segmentsinclude corrugations that strengthen said plurality of segments, saidcorrugations defining multiple elongate facets on said inner reflectivesurfaces said elongate facets being characterized by reflective surfacesthat reflect light emitted from the light source at complex angles tothe light source so that light is reflected away from the light sourceand not reflected back into the light source, and adjacent ones of saidelongate facets reflecting light on opposite sides of said central axis.24. The reflector as set forth in claim 23 wherein said plurality ofsegments are made from material having a thickness no greater than 0.020inches.
 25. The reflector as set forth in claim 24 wherein said materialis sheet aluminum.
 26. The reflector as set forth in claim 24 whereinsaid material is metal and said plurality of segments are formed bystamping.
 27. The reflector as set forth in claim 19 including aplurality of differently shaped segments, wherein various of saidplurality of differently shaped segments can be selected and arranged soas t form a unique reflector that creates a particular desired patternof reflected light therebelow, said plurality of differently shapedsegments including first segments adapted to reflect light in an arcuatepattern such as to illuminate a circular floor area, second segmentsadapted to reflect light in a square pattern such as to illuminate arectangular floor area, and third segments adapted to reflect light atan obtuse lateral angle such as to illuminate a wall of racks.
 28. Areflector for a luminaire, comprising:a plurality of segments eachhaving side edges, a top edge with a flange thereon, a bottom edge, anda reflective inner surface, said plurality of segments being arranged toform a geometrically-shaped hollow shell with said bottom edges arrangedto form an outlet opening at one end for emitting light therethrough,said geometrically-shaped hollow shell defining a central axis; aplurality of different top collars adapting said reflector to attach todifferent existing light sources, a selected one of said top collarsbeing attached to said flanges on said top edges and including means forpositioning and retaining said reflector to a light source on saidcentral axis relative to said reflective inner surfaces, whereby saidselected top collar can be attached on site; and interconnecting meansfor interconnecting said plurality of segments so as to orient saidreflective inner surfaces relative to the light source and each other.29. A reflector for a luminaire, comprising:a plurality of segments eachhaving side edges, a top edge, a bottom edge, and a reflective innersurface, said segments being arranged to form a geometrically shapedhollow shell with said bottom edges arranged to form an outlet openingat one end for emitting light therethrough, said bottom edge includingan inwardly facing integral bottom flange, said hollow shell defining acentral axis; collar means for positioning and retaining said reflectorto a light source on said central axis relative to said reflective innersurfaces; interconnecting means located along said side edges of saidsegments; a plurality of connectors each including means for removablysecurely engaging the opposite interconnecting means on adjacent sideedges of said segments for interconnecting said segments so as to orientsaid reflective inner surfaces relative to the light source and eachother; and a cover for covering said outlet opening including a marginaledge, said integral bottom flanges on said segments extending inwardlyand being adapted to engage said marginal edge under said marginal edgeto secure said cover over said outlet opening.
 30. The reflector as setforth in claim 29 wherein said cover is transparent and including agasket adapted to cooperate with said inwardly facing integral bottomflanges to sealingly engage said cover.
 31. The reflector as set forthin claim 29 wherein said cover is a grate having openings therein. 32.The reflector as set forth in claim 29 wherein said cover is a wiremesh.